Ulagalla

DESTINATION

HOTEL TYPE

LOCATION TYPE

WHY WE LOVE THIS HOTEL

History: The 150-year-old mansion at the center of the resort was once the ancestral seat of Anuradhapura nobility.

Location: Tucked away in nature, Ulagalla sits just 30 minutes from Anuradhapura on the road to Dambulla.

Service: Whether it’s to book a massage, cooking class or electric golf buggy, staff are on hand at all times to help; the Nikawewa family villa is even available with private butler service.

DETAILED DECRIPTION

Nestled in Sri Lankan countryside in the quiet village of Thirappan at the heart of the cultural triangle, Ulagalla offers both access to and an escape from all the exploration and discoveries of this fascinating and historic land. Arranged around a beautifully-restored mansion, 20 private villas languish in lush green grounds with views of gardens and paddy fields. Guests can retreat to their own personal paradise with its private plunge pool and enjoy all the conveniences of modern life at the same time. Bicycles or golf carts are available to navigate the 58-acre sprawl and to convey guests to the large pool, tranquil spa or the grand mansion for an indulgent dinner at Liyawela restaurant.

Nestled in Sri Lankan countryside in the quiet village of Thirappan at the heart of the cultural triangle, Ulagalla offers both access to and an escape from all the exploration and discoveries of this fascinating and historic land. Arranged around a beautifully-restored mansion, 20 private villas languish in lush green grounds with views of gardens and paddy fields. Guests can retreat to their own personal paradise with its private plunge pool and enjoy all the conveniences of modern life at the same time. Bicycles or golf carts are available to navigate the 58-acre sprawl and to convey guests to the large pool, tranquil spa or the grand mansion for an indulgent dinner at Liyawela restaurant.

Why We Love This Hotel

History: The 150-year-old mansion at the center of the resort was once the ancestral seat of Anuradhapura nobility.

Location: Tucked away in nature, Ulagalla sits just 30 minutes from Anuradhapura on the road to Dambulla.

Service: Whether it’s to book a massage, cooking class or electric golf buggy, staff are on hand at all times to help; the Nikawewa family villa is even available with private butler service.

DESTINATION

anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Hotel Type

Boutique

Location Type

Remote

Amenities

Amenities

24hr room service

bar/pub

concierge

family room

fitness center

golf onsite or nearby

library

multilingual staff

outdoor pool

poolside bar

restaurant

safety deposit boxes

shuttle service

smoking area

spa

water sports

wi-fi in public areas

MEET AN EXPERT

The 20 private villas are all built using ecologically sound principles, to reflect the beautiful scenery that surrounds them. With a natural aesthetic on the outside, the interiors are elegantly appointed and comprehensively equipped.

Nikawewa Villa

This vast family villa covers 1200 square feet of luxury with two bedrooms, each with en suite facilities, arranged around the living and dining space. Out on the sunny terrace, the full-length pool is set in gardens overlooking sweeping paddy fields.

Ulagalla Villa

These 19 luxury private villas boast 850 square feet of airy living space, with enormous windows offering panoramic views of the natural surroundings. Guests may enjoy the privacy of their own plunge pool on the outdoor sundeck and retreat to the king-sized four poster bed for a heavenly night’s sleep.

Everything is taken care of at Ulagalla: while the resort is surrounded by opportunities for adventure and exploration, guests may find it hard to drag themselves from the world-class amenities.

Gym

Fitness regimes can be maintained or rediscovered in the well-equipped gym. Cardio machines and free weights are at the disposal of exercisers and a personal yoga class can be arranged from a local master.

Library

Guests can curl up with a good book from the well-stocked bookshelves or play a leisurely game of pool in the mansion’s library and games room.

Pool

Set in glorious green gardens and overhung with tropical flowers, the olympic-sized swimming pool is perfect for an invigorating dip, while comfortable loungers await sun seekers looking to top up their tans.

Transport

Guests can navigate the sprawling 58 acres covered by the resort’s grounds either on charming bicycles or aboard an electric golf buggy, available on request from reception. What’s more, the rooftop helipad allows for an enjoyable journey from the airport and an impressive entrance.

Dining at Ulagalla is a culinary window into the hotel’s philosophy and heart. With elegant yet welcoming decor and sumptuous cuisine, guests can relax in comfort and indulge all their senses.

Liyawela

Decked out in warm earth tones with a breezy upper deck offering stunning views, the setting at Liyawela restaurant perfectly complements its delicious dishes. Diners can enjoy a menu of traditional Sri Lankan fare as well as international classics within the restored mansion at the center of the resort.